Fire cover in Spelthorne

Meeting on 7 February has been cancelled following the announcement by Surrey County Council

Following the announcement that Surrey County Council has agreed to keep Staines fire station open until the new Fordbridge station is up and running, Cllr Ian Harvey and Kwasi Kwarteng MP have issued the following statement:-

"Leading local Conservatives thanked David Hodge and Surrey County Council for honouring their decision to keep Staines fire station open until the new Fordbridge fire station goes operational ensuring continuity of cover in Spelthorne.

Spelthorne MP Kwasi Kwarteng, said: "Many of us have worked quietly behind the scenes to resolve this situation. Thankfully Spelthorne Conservatives have an excellent relationship with David Hodge, Leader of Surrey County Council, who has been a tremendously positive influence."

"Spelthorne Borough Council Leader, Ian Harvey, added: "Our Conservative Borough Councillors discreetly and persistently lobbied Surrey as did County Councillors Tim Evans, Denise Turner-Stewart and particularly Surrey Cabinet Member Richard Walsh. They have all played an important role in helping resolve this and I would like to thank everyone involved."

In light of the announcement, the Overview and Scrutiny meeting scheduled for 7 February is cancelled. Cllr Colin Davis, Chairman of the Committee, said: "I am delighted that the County have agreed to keep Staines fire station open until the Fordbridge station is operational. Whilst we understand that councils are under increasing financial pressure, it is important to honour the promises made."

Spelthorne Council has also given its commitment to continue to lobby for a second fire engine with a retained crew to be stationed at the Fordbridge site.